Did you know that chewing gum can release tiny pieces of plastic into your mouth? Researchers have found that when you chew gum, it can create pollution because most gum is made from rubber. Microplastics, which are tiny pieces of plastic, have been found all over the world, even in our bodies.
A recent study showed that chewing gum can release about 100 pieces of microplastics into your mouth. People who chew a lot of gum could be swallowing up to 30,000 microplastics a year. This is a concern for our health and the environment.
It’s important to know that the most common gum sold in stores contains plastics, even though the ingredients are not listed on the package. This means that we may be ingesting more plastic than we realize. But don’t worry, experts say that the small amount of microplastics in gum is not likely to harm us.
So, while it’s okay to chew gum, remember not to spit it out on the ground as it can contribute to plastic pollution. Let’s be mindful of how our small actions can impact the world around us!
Vocabulary List:
- Microplastics /ˌmaɪ.kroʊˈplæs.tɪks/ (noun): Tiny pieces of plastic that can cause pollution and are found in various environments including the body.
- Pollution /pəˈluː.ʃən/ (noun): The presence or introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment.
- Concern /kənˈsɜrn/ (noun): A matter of interest or importance that causes worry.
- Ingesting /ɪnˈdʒɛstɪŋ/ (verb): The act of taking in food or drink through the mouth.
- Contribute /kənˈtrɪb.juːt/ (verb): To give (something such as money or time) to help achieve or provide something.
- Mindful /ˈmaɪnd.fəl/ (adjective): Being conscious or aware of something especially in relation to one’s impact on the environment.
How much do you know?
